Introduction:
Healthy bones are essential to living an active and independent lifestyle. Bones naturally lose density over time due to age and other factors. Sometimes the decrease in bone density goes unnoticed and the first sign of it can be a fracture.
It is important for people to take proactive measures to protect their bones to prevent future fractures, and to maintain mobility.
Regal Hospital is located in North Bangalore (Thanisandra, Hennur, Yelahanka, Hebbal and Tirumanahalli) and offers medical evaluations to help create a plan to suit each patient’s individual needs.
Those interested in learning more about osteoporosis will find this information, as well as other details like the common risk factors and the inner workings of a DXA scan, in the following content.
What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis occurs when bones become so fragile that a fracture occurs with very little to no trauma. When bones lose density, it can increase the risk of fractures, and can leave patients disabled.
It is common for patients with osteoporosis to fracture bones in the spine, hips and wrists. Sometimes, a fracture can occur from a simple fall or from everyday activities.
Bone density conditions are usually diagnosed when other clinical risk factors are also present. This includes considering age, medical history, previous fractures, and other clinical risk factors.
Some of the most Common Signs and Symptoms of Bone Density Loss
Because it occurs gradually, osteoporosis is often referred to as a “silent” condition.
Some possible signs may include:
- Fractures as a result of falls from standing height.
- Loss of height
- Changes in posture
- Pain in the back
- Restricted movement
However, these signs and symptoms can also be caused by a variety of other conditions. If other symptoms are also present, these may prompt further evaluation of bone health. It’s important to keep in mind the other causes of these potential symptoms.
What Causes a Loss of Bone Density?
Bone density naturally changes with age and can be altered due to other factors.
Some causes may include:
- Hormonal changes
- A prolonged immobilization or inactivity
- Certain medical conditions
- Chemotherapy and other Cancer treatments
Calcium helps make up the structure of bones, and Vitamin D is essential for the body to absorb calcium. There can be inadequate intake and absorption of vitamin D due to various reasons. These may lead to reduced bone strength.
Medical Conditions and Medication
Some endocrine disorders and inflammatory diseases may increase the risk of osteoporosis. The same is the case with long-term corticosteroid therapy.
Patients must not discontinue their prescribed medications on their own.
Family History and Lifestyle
Additional risk factors include smoking, heavy drinking, low body weight, sedentary lifestyle, and a family history of osteoporosis or hip fractures.
Identification of these factors leads to a decision regarding the need for a bone mineral density assessment and preventive measures.
DXA Bone Density Test
DXA, or Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry, is the most widely used method of determining bone mineral density. This test is usually used for the spine and the hip because of the higher risk of fractures occurring in these areas, as a result of osteoporosis.
A DXA scan may be ordered by the physician for:
- Postmenopausal women 65 years of age and older.
- Postmenopausal women younger than 65 years with other risk factors.
- Men and other adults with risk factors.
- People who have suffered a fracture as a result of low-trauma.
- Individuals taking medications that increase the risk of fractures.
- Those undergoing treatment and monitoring for osteoporosis.
How Does DXA Testing Work?
During a DXA scan, a padded examination table is positioned so that a scanning arm can measure bone density. Scans are quick, painless, and non-invasve.
Generally, scans assess the lumbar spine and hips. Other areas of the body may be scanned if indicated. Scans usually do not require injections or sedation.
A score is reported to the ordering doctor to assist in interpretation. A T-score of -2.5 or less at a specified site is diagnostic of osteoporosis for postmenopausal women and men 50 years of age and older. Interpretation of a score must be made in light of the clinical context.
DXA scanning is one component of a thorough assessment to diagnose osteoporosis, estimate the risk of fracture, and determine the response to treatment.
Patients in Thanisandra wanting to know more about DXA scanning can contact the Regal Hospital to confirm DXA scan availability, obtain scheduling, and receive pretest instructions.
Osteoporosis Treatment in Bangalore: What Are the Options?
Treatment is individualized based upon the results of bone density testing, the patient’s age and fracture history, and other comorbidities.
- Vitamin D
Vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium and the normal function of the bones. In cases of a deficiency, your doctor may recommend you get tested and/or prescribe supplementation.
Taking high doses of Vitamin D is not recommended, as excessive supplementation can be harmful.
- Weight-Bearing Exercise and Strength Training
Exercise, such as walking and appropriate resistance exercises, can help improve your bone and muscle health and reduce your fall risk.
If you have severely frail bones and/or a history of osteoporotic fractures, your health care provider may recommend exercise. It may be safer to have a tailored exercise program as opposed to high-impact activities.
- Prescription Medicine
If there is an increased risk of fracture, and lifestyle modification is the only intervention your doctor recommends, you may want to consider having a fracture risk assessment and incorporating medication to help manage your osteoporosis.
Some medications used to help manage osteoporosis slow the breakdown of bone while others help build bone. It is important to have a discussion with your doctor to help understand the choice of medication and what the duration of treatment will be, as well as what precautions and side effects to look out for.
For individuals looking to gain more information about treatment for osteoporosis in Bangalore, help to slow the progression of your osteoporosis and decrease your fracture risk is available.
If there is a fracture, get medical help right away. Curesans suggests that you come to the ER if you have had a fall and are experiencing severe back pain, have been unable to bear weight, or think you may have a hip fracture.
The term “fragile bone care” at Regal Hospital describes a patient concern to name bone weakness, evaluate fracture risk, and assess access to needed medical care before loss of independence.
What makes Regal Hospital special?
Regal Hospital is located in North Bangalore and provides services to patients in Thanisandra, Hennur, Yelahanka, Hebbal, Tirumanahalli, and surrounding areas.
For patients concerned about loss of bone density, the first step is to facilitate a clinical assessment and confirm the availability of the necessary diagnostic test. The care team can help explain options to get an appointment and the best way to get it.
Patients should ask their doctors about their risk of fracture, if they need a DXA test, if there are any blood tests they need, what their treatment options are, and when they need to come back.
For more information, visit the Regal Hospital website or contact the hospital to find out when the bone density scans are available and to meet the relevant specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a DXA bone density test?
A DXA scan is a low-dose X-ray test that measures bone mineral density, usually at the hip and spine. It helps doctors diagnose osteoporosis, assess fracture risk, and monitor treatment.
- Is osteoporosis common after menopause?
Bone loss can accelerate after menopause because oestrogen levels decline. However, osteoporosis can affect men and women at different ages. Testing depends on individual risk factors and medical history.
- Can osteoporosis be treated?
Yes. Management may include nutrition changes, exercise, fall prevention, and prescription medicines when indicated. Treatment can reduce fracture risk, although the results vary according to individual circumstances.
- How often should I repeat a DXA scan?
There is no single interval for everyone. Repeat testing depends on baseline bone density, fracture risk, treatment, and clinical circumstances. Follow your doctor’s recommendation.
- Where can I enquire about a bone density test near Thanisandra?
Contact Regal Hospital in North Bangalore to confirm DXA scan availability, scheduling, and the appropriate consultation pathway. The hospital team can provide current appointment information.
Book Your Free Consultation Today
Call us today: +91 888 405 8888.
Visit us: Near Thanisandra-Yelahanka Road, Bengaluru
Learn more: www.regalhospital.com
This blog is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice from a qualified doctor. Please consult a specialist for diagnosis and treatment.
